National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week: Keeping Families and Children Safe
October 29, 2020
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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 3.6 million families in the United States are at risk of lead poisoning due to the presence of lead-based paint in their homes. This poses a lifelong health risk to people of all ages, and especially children under the age of 6. Alongside the CDC, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and numerous others, Ashcraft & Gerel is proud to observe National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week from October 25-31 to raise awareness about the pervasive risk of lead poisoning.

While the majority of people have heard of the dangers of lead poisoning, lead paint remains present in old structures and homes built before 1978. This is a significant danger to the families who inhabit these homes; sadly, they may be completely unaware that lead is present in their homes.

If you live in an older home built before 1978, it is advisable to have your home inspected for any lead paint or dust. Furthermore, the CDC recommends that if you believe your children were exposed to lead, it is best to discuss it with their pediatrician. Even small amounts of lead in a child’s bloodstream can lead to health complications, such as learning disabilities, difficulty focusing, organ failure, brain damage, neurological conditions, coma, and even death. Fortunately, there are treatment routes available if detected early, such as chelation therapy.

Other at-risk groups in addition to children:

  • Pregnant women
  • Refugees
  • Emigrants from lead-contaminated regions
  • Internationally adopted children
  • People living near industrial facilities dealing with lead

The best solution to lead poisoning is not only to detect it when it happens but to prevent exposure from occurring in the first place. National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week is the perfect time to contact a professional to inspect your home for the presence of lead, keeping you and your family safe.

“Together, we can eliminate childhood lead poisoning as a public health problem by strengthening blood lead testing, reporting, and surveillance, while linking exposed children to recommended services,” said Patrick Breysse, PhD, CIH, CDC National Center for Environmental Health director.

Ashcraft & Gerel Advocates for Victims of Lead Poisoning

CALL 866-709-0505 OR CONTACT US ONLINE FOR A FREE, CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATION.

Our legal team at Ashcraft & Gerel has helped countless clients harmed by lead poisoning. We understand that we cannot undo the hardship accompanying lead poisoning, but we can help ease your burden by fighting to hold negligent property owners liable for their actions. By law, property owners and landlords are responsible for ensuring their property is safe for anyone who steps inside. If they failed to take proper safety measures, and you suffered lead poisoning as a result, you may be eligible to recover damages.

Backed by more than 65 years of experience, Ashcraft & Gerel attorneys understand the nuances of lead poisoning claims and can help you navigate the legal process and any complications that may arise. Super Lawyers®, Best Lawyers®, Martindale-Hubbell, and the American Association for Justice are just a few of the prestigious legal organizations to recognize our demonstrated legal prowess and extensive industry knowledge. We accept cases throughout Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland at conveniently located offices in Baltimore, Silver Spring, Landover, Rockville, Washington D.C., Fairfax, and Manassas.

Call Ashcraft & Gerel at (866) 709-0505 or contact us online to discuss your claim with a distinguished attorney.

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